Born Jamericans

Born Jamericans – Kids From Foreign -

Delicious Vinyl – 1994

When Black American finally got into

deejaying – calling it rap – and building

rhythms so that the rappers had something

to rap on. It was only a matter of time before

that spirit would flow right back into Jamaica.

Except when American was getting into Rap

– in the eighties – Jamaica was enjoying the

dance hall style. So for well over ten years –

there was little cultural exchange.

Its a simple problem. Funky basslines over

reggae drum patterns don't sound right.

However, add reggae basslines over funky

drum patterns – and you have something

that lights up like a firework display!

The best firework display you can find in this

area is from the Born Jamericans. 'Kids From

Foreign' came out in 1994. (note the date –

1994) it took a long long time for someone

to truly have a go at this simple concept..and

then add to it, by mixing in rap and deejay

patterns over the top.

Anyone who knows the eighties dance-hall

scene will know all these basslines – The BJ's

work them – like no one as ever worked

them before!!!

It should have sparked off a whole heap of

albums in this style – but in the home of the

'Mash Up' – Jamaica. Things move slowly –

very slowly. But the idea as been planted –

and nothing ever happens before its time....